Making strides in the video arena, the a7S II Mirrorless Digital Camera from Sony offers an impressive blend of sensitivity, dynamic range, resolution, and speed to benefit a versatile multimedia workflow. Revolving around a full-frame 12.2MP Exmor CMOS sensor, the a7S II is capable of internal UHD 4K recording at 30 fps with full pixel readout as well as 1080p recording at up to 120 fps, all in the XAVC S format. For both stills and video recording, the BIONZ X image processor also pairs with the sensor to enable expanded sensitivity to ISO 409600, continuous shooting to 5 fps, and fast intelligent autofocus with low-light sensitivity to -4 EV. Further enabling working in difficult lighting conditions, 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization compensates for vertical, horizontal, pitch, yaw, and roll camera movements for sharper, smoother handheld recording.

Complementing the 4K recording capabilities is a redeveloped recording setup, including the ability to utilize S-Log3 Gamma and S-Gamut3 in addition to S-Log2, for increasing dynamic range values by up to 1300% to better match high-end post-production workflows. For clearer monitoring potential, an enhanced Zebra function better supports working with S-Log gamma settings and a Gamma Display Assist helps to preview imagery with natural contrast by converting S-Log2 and S-Log3 settings to the ITU709 gamma for easier on-camera viewing.

The a7S II is also characterized by a compact, yet robust, magnesium alloy body design that incorporates a high 0.78x-magnification Tru-Finder OLED electronic viewfinder. With a resolution of 2.36-million dots and a Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating, this finder benefits working in a variety of lighting conditions and is capable of previewing exposure and settings adjustments prior to recording. A rear 3.0" 1,228,800-dot LCD screen is also available, and features a tilting design to support working from high and low angles. Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC allows you to pair mobile devices to the camera for wireless sharing and remote camera control.

Full-Frame Exmor Sensor and BIONZ X Image Processor

A 12.2MP full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor and BIONZ X image processor work together to enable an expansive dynamic range with minimal noise and notable sensitivity from ISO 100-102400, which is further expandable to ISO 50-409600. Coupled with the large individual pixel size the 12.2MP sensor affords, this camera is well-suited to use in low-light conditions.

The sensor's design also features a new-generation RGB color filter array, as well as a gapless on-chip lens design. Together, these two technologies enable truly efficient light-gathering abilities that further reinforce the low noise, high-sensitivity design. Furthermore, an anti-reflective coating has also been applied to the seal glass of the image sensor to minimize surface reflections, glare, and ghosting for contrast-rich, color-neutral imagery.

The sensor and processor combination also avail a wealth of performance-related benefits to still shooting, including a Speed Priority continuous shooting rate of 5 fps, or a 2.5 fps shooting rate with continuous AF. The Fast Intelligent AF system employs 169 AF points, which is comprised of 25 contrast-detection points and nine central AF points that have been split into 16 segments each, in order to provide both speed and accuracy in low-light conditions down to -4 EV.

Internal UHD 4K Recording and Full Pixel Readout

Internal recording of UHD 4K movies is possible in multiple frame rates up to 30 fps and, based on the 12.2MP resolution, full pixel readout is possible that is void of pixel binning for higher quality imagery with reduced moiré and aliasing. Full HD 1080p recording is also supported in frame rates up to 120 fps, and both resolutions utilize the 100 Mbps XAVC S format contained within an MP4 wrapper with 4:2:0 sampling. The high-speed, 120 fps recording also enables 4x and 5x slow-motion movie recording with the frame rate set to either 30p or 24p.

In addition to high-resolution internal recording, uncompressed HDMI output also enables the use of an optional external recorder for clean 4K recording with 4:2:2 sampling.

5-Axis SteadyShot INSIDE Image Stabilization

Packed into the svelte a7S II is a 4.5-stop effective 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization system that compensates for five different types of camera shake encountered during handheld shooting of stills and video. This allows users to confidently use any lens, even adapted lenses, for critical imaging without encountering blur from camera shake.

For long focal lengths, the system will correct for pitch and yaw adjustments. Macro and high-magnification imagery, on the other hand, will benefit from the inclusion of horizontal and vertical shift compensation. All shooting styles will get usage out of the roll compensation. All 5 axes of stabilization will function at all times, even when used with third-party lenses and adapters or lenses with built-in optical stabilization.

Custom Color Profiles and S-Log3 Gamma

Support is available for the S-Gamut3.Cine/S-Log-3 and S-Gamut3/S-Log3 profiles that enable up to a 1300% wider dynamic range for smoother tonal and color gradations, along with enhanced sensitivity and clarity in shadows and mid-tones. These profiles also lend themselves to greater compatibility within a professional workflow and are well-paired to the Cineon Log gamma curve for versatile post-production grading and color control. The S-Log3 gamma setting also offers an impressive 14-stop wide dynamic range for greater control over the highlights and shadows, while the S-Gamut3.Cine profile can be used to mimic the qualities of scanned negative film with a wide gamut comparable to the DCI-P3 color space.

In addition to the S-Log3 gamma, the popular S-Log2 settings are also available.

Zebra and Gamma Display Assist

An enhanced Zebra function is ideally suited to working with S-Log gamma profiles and aids in monitoring exposure values in high-contrast scenes. Video signal level targets can be set from 0 to 109, and specific ranges can be set to make exposure level adjustments easier.

In contrast, a Gamma Display Assist function is also available that displays scenes with natural contrast when recording with S-Log settings. This function converts imagery to the ITU709 profile for easier on-camera monitoring.

Timecode and User Bit Settings

The a7S II has multiple timecode recording options to meet different workflows. It has the standard 'Record Run" mode that only advances the timecode when recording, as well as "Free Run" timecode that advances the timecode even when not recording, which can be great for syncing multiple cameras at live events. It can also record timecode in both drop frame and non-drop frame modes. When recording internally the a7S II is also able to output timecode via HDMI.

0.5" 2.36m-Dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder Electronic Viewfinder

With its 4-lens optical system using double-sided aspherical elements the viewfinder faithfully displays what will appear in your recording, including the effects of your camera settings. You'll enjoy rich tonal gradations and improved contrast. High-end features like 100% frame coverage and a 0.78x magnification enable comfortable and stable eye-level composition.

In addition to the electronic viewfinder, a rear 3.0" 1,228.8k-dot LCD monitor has also been incorporated into the design and can tilt 107° upward or 41° downward to better enable working from high and low angles.

Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity with NFC

Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity enables the a7S II to instantly share imagery to mobile devices for direct sharing online to social networking, via email, and to cloud storage sites. NFC (Near Field Communication) is also supported, which allows for one-touch connection between the camera and compatible mobile devices; no complex set-up is required. Once connected, the linked mobile device can also display a live view image on its screen and remotely control the camera's shutter.

Additionally, PlayMemories Camera Apps are also supported via the built-in Wi-Fi connection, and allow you to personalize the camera's features depending on specific shooting styles. Apps are available to suit creating portraits, detailed close-ups, sports, time lapse, motion shot, and other specific types of imagery.

Other Camera Features

Cutting down on mechanical vibrations by 50% is the durable reduced-vibration shutter, which has been tested to 500,000 cycles. An electronic front curtain can be used to reduce vibrations further.

A Silent Shutter mode can be used to mute the sound of the shutter for working in quiet environments. Up to 5 fps shooting is possible with the silent shutter and the mode can be assigned to a function button for quick on/off switching.

The top, front, and rear covers of the body have all been made from magnesium alloy for long-lasting durability.

Enhanced Eye AF can be used with AF-S and AF-C focusing modes, and automatically detects and tracks a subject's eye for critical focus.

The Expand Flexible Spot function can be used with AF Area selections to intelligently expand the size of your selected focusing spot if it is not positioned on your subject.

Focus Magnifier and Peaking functions benefit working with manual focus and allow you to quickly confirm in-focus portions of an image when shooting stills or recording video.

White Balance settings can be fine-tuned for greater personal control over how a scene's colors are represented.

In addition to the included battery charger, the NP-FW50 battery can also be charged inside the camera via USB.

Sony a7S II reviews

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Darren from
My first camera since my Canon 5DM2As of this writing, I've been using my Canon 5DM2 since 2009, and Canon always seemed to underwhelm with their M3 and 7DM2. While I love the Canon colors, the ability for 4K, slomo, and great low light capabilities always seemed to elude Canon. I almost went with the first A7S, but the lack of 4K internal recording was a no-go. Only a year later, and they came out with the A7Sii with 4K internal and six axis stabilized sensor! I have no regrets in getting this camera. If the $3K price tag may seem too much, consider this: The 5DM2 cost $3,500 when it came out EIGHT YEARS ago! So the bang for your buck in 2016, is just amazing!! Oh yeah, slomo (120p) in HD!?!? SWEET

Date published: 2016-05-30

Rated 4 out of
5 by
Mike from
Crop Factor at 120fpsI am new to Sony cameras and like the camera and the quality from it. My only complaint is about filming at 120fps. Maybe this is ignorance on my part but when filming at 120fps using the Sony 24-70mm FE full frame lens there is a significant crop factor, probably 2X. I called B & H and the support person did not know anything about the issue but I later had a support chat with Sony and they said this is normal when filming at the high frame rate and the only solution is to press record then re-compose your shot. This makes filming slow motion a little more of a challenge but it still works and the shots come out great.

Date published: 2015-11-10

Rated 4 out of
5 by
nmphojo from
Made the switch from NikonI bought this camera after having an allegiance to Nikon for a long time. I am a news video journalist looking to add some more creativity into my work with a new videography venture. This camera seems to be the perfect start to my new gear setup. I was originally a stills photographer and debated on getting the a7rii for the much larger 42MP. And I would recommend that camera for people looking to do stills. However I wanted to use this for probably 90% video work and loved the low light capability. I am new to shooting slog video and I am excited about the few test runs I have tried. There is a great range of options and customizable functions on this camera.

Date published: 2016-04-05

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Larson from
Detail w 12 giant MPs on A7S ii, no need for 42 MP A7R iiThis Camera is the best camera I've ever owned! Reading the reviews, I had concern for softness due to the low pixel count compared to the A7r II's 42 MPs, Not to be concerned, this cameras' full frame and light gathering ability stopped to F4. (sweet spot on my old manual nikon F1.4 Lens) has every bit of detail in 4k video and stills! The ability to sharpen the image at night stopped to F4 and have practically no noise is unheard of. I bumped the ISO up to 2000 to 3200. (of course the ISO can go way beyond this) but this was the sweet spot for me for incredible sharpness at night, street light lighting only, no noise, what a beast this is in a small package. It is so sharp across the lens at F4 with all my old Nikon lens! who needs AF and who needs high MP count?

Date published: 2015-11-09

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Anonymous from
Sony A7s II is excellentPurchased the a7s ii and have been loving it. The internal 4k is obviously a notable factor however the build quality and customization options were better than anticipated. Loving the image stabilization as well, keeps moving shots steadier than any camera I have used to date. I purchased one which noted minor damage to the packaging but the camera remained in tact and overall I am pleased. I do find it mildly annoying that the packaging didnt come with any menus, warranties, or what have you inside; just the gear and that's it. Its possible it mentions this on the advertisement but it would have been nice to have some walk through on the technical side of things. Nothing youtube can't fix!

Date published: 2016-12-14

Rated 4 out of
5 by
Anonymous from
Great camera (Best for video use)It's a great camera. I bought it as an upgrade of the A7s. Is it worth it? For me, yes: internal 4k video and IBIS (that's a really nice feature indeed). The rest it's the same. Rolling shutter too... Or maybe worse? With my Rokinon Cine 85mm it's ridiculously unbearable, you really can't do fast pans. But at least I can shoot hand-held with a 85mm unstabilized (thanks to IBIS). That's life, nothing it's perfect. So, you can't go wrong with this camera: light, good quality build (slightly bigger than the previous version), a lot of lenses (with the right adapter), internal 4k, low light monster. In general, it's a camera aimed at videographers. Video it's of great quality. For stills, the A7rii is better (however, stills are really good with this camera too, I can't complain). Last thing: buy a lot of spare batteries.

Date published: 2016-04-20

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Anonymous from
Switched from canon, glad I didLove this camera. Was a canon guy for the last 9 years, started a new job and got to purchase a camera of my choice. I struggled with making the switch to sony after being a canon guy my whole career. I was really worried about the lens options but sony is starting to figure that out, I have the patience to wait on them to create some new lens. The camera body does have a lot of buttons, way more than I am use to. But like any thing new and different you need to learn about it and understand it. Overall I am glad I made the switch. The low light it great and the different frame rates and 4k is great. I do also use it for stills and the quick auto focus is good. It takes a while to figure out all the different setting for autofocus but once you do it can be very powerful. All in all glad I made the switch.

Date published: 2017-02-02

Rated 4 out of
5 by
LaRoccaFilms from
Pretty amazingI am a video guy, so I almost never take photos. This works great with 4k with focus assist. I wish the screen were bigger but I guess if you are doing a bigger production you would have a monitor. The negatives are that this thing eats batteries especially when recording video. Literally about a hour per battery. This is the future, Mirrorless.